by Feeding time can be tricky for new parents. Sometimes, babies push away their bottles even when they’re hungry.
This can be confusing and stressful. Let’s look at why this happens and what you can do about it.
Babies are little mysteries. They can be cute one minute and fussy the next.
When a baby pushes away their bottle but still seems hungry, it can leave parents scratching their heads. This is a common problem that many parents face.
There are many reasons why a baby might refuse a bottle. It could be something simple like being in the wrong position.
Or it might be more complex, like not liking the formula. Sometimes, babies are just distracted by what’s going on around them.
The good news is that most of the time, this isn’t a serious issue. It’s usually just a phase that babies go through.
But it’s still important to figure out what’s causing it. This way, you can help your baby get the food they need.
Why is My Baby Pushing Bottle Away But Still Hungry?
In this article, we’ll look at the top reasons why babies push away their bottles.
We’ll also talk about what you can do to help. We’ll cover everything from changing formulas to trying different feeding positions.
By the end, you’ll have a good idea of how to handle this tricky situation.
Remember, every baby is different. What works for one might not work for another.
The key is to be patient and keep trying different things. With a little time and effort, you’ll find a solution that works for you and your baby.
Also Check: How To Travel With Frozen Breast Milk
Top 10 Reasons For a Baby Refusing The Bottle
Let’s look at the main reasons why your baby might be pushing away the bottle:
1. Wrong Position
How you hold your baby while feeding is very important. If the position isn’t right, it can make it hard for your baby to drink comfortably.
Key points:
- The wrong angle can make milk flow too fast or too slow
- This can make it hard for the baby to drink
- A bad position can lead to the baby refusing the bottle
Tips for better positioning:
- Hold your baby in a semi-upright position
- Make sure their head is higher than their tummy
- Support their head and neck
- Hold the bottle at a slight angle
2. Baby is Distracted
Babies are curious by nature. They can easily get distracted by things around them.
Common distractions:
- Loud noises
- Bright lights
- People moving around
- TV or music playing
How to reduce distractions:
- Feed in a quiet room
- Turn off the TV and music
- Ask others to keep the noise down during feeding time
- Use a feeding cover if needed
3. Baby is Teething
Teething can make a baby’s mouth sore. This can make it painful to suck on a bottle.
Signs of teething:
- Red, swollen gums
- Drooling more than usual
- Chewing on things
- Being more fussy than normal
How to help:
- Use a cold teething ring before feeding
- Gently rub your baby’s gums with a clean finger
- Ask your doctor about safe pain relief options
4. Baby is Not Feeling Well
When babies are sick, they might not want to eat. This can cause them to push away the bottle.
Signs your baby might be sick:
- Fever
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Being more sleepy than usual
- Crying more than normal
What to do:
- Check your baby’s temperature
- Look for other signs of illness
- Call your doctor if you’re worried
5. Wrong Temperature
The temperature of the milk can make a big difference. If it’s too hot or too cold, your baby might refuse it.
Ideal milk temperature:
- Should feel warm, not hot, on your wrist
- Around body temperature (98.6°F or 37°C)
How to check:
- Shake a few drops on the inside of your wrist
- It should feel warm, not hot
6. Baby Has Colic Issues
Colic can make babies very fussy. This can affect their eating habits.
Signs of colic:
- Crying for long periods for no clear reason
- Pulling legs up to tummy
- Clenching fists
- Arching back
How to help:
- Try different holding positions
- Gently rub your baby’s tummy
- Use white noise or gentle music
- Ask your doctor for advice
7. Baby Doesn’t Like the Formula
Sometimes, babies just don’t like the taste of certain formulas.
Signs your baby might not like the formula:
- Making faces when drinking
- Spitting out the formula
- Refusing to drink more than a little
What to try:
- Ask your doctor about switching formulas
- Try a different brand
- Look for formulas for sensitive tummies
8. Transition from Breastfeeding to Bottle
Moving from breast to bottle can be hard for some babies. They might refuse the bottle at first.
Why this happens:
- Bottles feel different from breasts
- Milk flow is different
- Baby misses the closeness of breastfeeding
Tips for easier transition:
- Have someone else offer the bottle
- Try different bottle nipples
- Keep the baby close while bottle feeding
- Be patient, it might take time
9. Transition from Formula to Solid Foods
As babies start eating solid foods, they might lose interest in bottles.
Signs your baby is ready for solids:
- Can sit up with support
- Shows interest in your food
- Can move food from front to back of mouth
- Is around 6 months old
How to handle this transition:
- Start with small amounts of solids
- Keep offering the bottle
- Talk to your doctor about the right balance of solids and milk
10. Underlying Health Issues
Sometimes, health problems can cause a baby to refuse the bottle.
Possible health issues:
- Ear infections
- Acid reflux
- Allergies
- Tongue-tie
What to do:
- Keep track of when your baby refuses the bottle
- Note any other symptoms
- Talk to your doctor about your concerns
Things to Do When Baby Pushes Bottle Away
Now that we know why babies might refuse bottles, let’s look at what you can do about it.
1. Change The Formula
If your baby doesn’t like the taste, try a new formula.
Steps to change the formula:
- Talk to your doctor first
- Choose a formula for sensitive tummies if needed
- Change gradually, mixing old and new formulas at first
- Watch for any bad reactions
2. Change The Atmosphere
A calm environment can help with feeding.
How to create a good feeding atmosphere:
- Find a quiet spot
- Dim the lights
- Turn off TVs and phones
- Speak softly to your baby
3. Involve a Different Caregiver
Sometimes, having someone else feed the baby can help.
Tips for involving others:
- Choose someone the baby knows and likes
- Show them how to hold the baby and bottle
- Let them practice when the baby isn’t too hungry
4. Experiment With Different Bottles
Not all bottles are the same. Try different types to see what your baby likes.
Things to try:
- Bottles with different nipple shapes
- Bottles made of different materials (glass, plastic, silicone)
- Bottles with different flow rates
5. Burp Before Feeding
Trapped air can make babies uncomfortable. Burping can help.
How to burp your baby:
- Hold baby against your chest, supporting their head
- Pat or rub their back gently
- Try different positions (over your shoulder, sitting on your lap)
6. Try Different Feeding Techniques
There’s more than one way to feed a baby. Try different methods.
Feeding techniques to try:
- Paced bottle feeding (holding the bottle horizontally)
- Dream feeding (feeding when baby is sleepy)
- Swaddled feeding (wrapping baby before feeding)
7. Try Different Positions
The way you hold your baby can make a big difference.
Feeding positions to try:
- Cradle hold
- Football hold
- Side-lying position
- Upright position
8. Introduce Solid Food If Age Appropriate
If your baby is old enough, starting solids might help.
When to start solids:
- Usually around 6 months old
- When the baby can sit up and hold the head steady
- When a baby shows interest in food
How to start:
- Begin with single-grain cereals
- Move to pureed fruits and vegetables
- Always talk to your doctor first
Things You Shouldn’t Do When Your Baby is Pushing The Bottle Away
While trying to help your baby eat, there are some things you should avoid:
1. Don’t force or pressure the baby
- This can make feeding time stressful
- It might make your baby dislike bottles even more
2. Don’t get frustrated or stressed
- Babies can sense your mood
- Stay calm and try again later
3. Don’t introduce solids too early
- This can cause digestive problems
- Wait until your doctor says it’s okay
4. Don’t switch feeding methods suddenly
- Big changes can upset babies
- Make changes slowly over time
When to See a Doctor If Baby Still Pushing Milk Bottle Away?
Most of the time, bottle refusal isn’t serious. But sometimes, you might need to talk to a doctor.
See a doctor if:
- Your baby refuses bottles for several days
- Your baby isn’t gaining weight
- Your baby seems sick (fever, vomiting, very fussy)
- You’re feeling very stressed or worried
Remember, it’s always okay to ask for help. Your doctor is there to support you and your baby.
FAQs about Baby Pushing Bottle Away
- Q: Is it normal for a baby to refuse the bottle but still show signs of hunger?
A: Yes, this is quite common. Babies might refuse bottles for many reasons, even when they’re hungry. It’s often just a phase that will pass.
- Q: How long should I keep offering the bottle if my baby keeps pushing it away?
A: Try for about 10-15 minutes. If your baby keeps refusing, take a break and try again later. Forcing the issue can make things worse.
- Q: Is it common for breastfed babies to refuse the bottle?
A: Yes, this is normal. Bottles feel different from breasts, so it can take time for breastfed babies to get used to them. Keep trying and be patient.
- Q: How can I tell if my baby is full or just refusing the bottle?
A: Look for signs of hunger before feeding. If your baby shows these signs but still refuses the bottle, it might be bottle refusal rather than fullness.
Signs of hunger:
- Rooting (turning head and opening mouth)
- Putting hands to mouth
- Sucking on things
- Making sucking noises
- Being fussy
- Q: Can teething cause a baby to refuse the bottle?
A: Yes, teething can make a baby’s mouth sore, which might make them refuse the bottle. Try soothing their gums before feeding.
- Q: Should I worry if my baby suddenly starts refusing the bottle?
A: If it’s just for a day or two, it’s probably not a big concern. But if it lasts longer or your baby seems unwell, talk to your doctor.
- Q: Can changing formulas help if my baby is refusing the bottle?
A: Sometimes, yes. Some babies are picky about formula taste. But always talk to your doctor before changing formulas.
- Q: Is it okay to try different bottles to see if my baby prefers one?
A: Yes, this can be a good idea. Different babies like different bottles. Just be sure to introduce new bottles slowly.
- Q: Could my baby be refusing the bottle because the milk is too hot or cold?
A: Yes, milk temperature can affect whether a baby will take a bottle. Always check the temperature before feeding.
- Q: Is it normal for babies to refuse bottles when they start eating solid foods?
A: This can happen. As babies start enjoying solids, they might lose interest in bottles. Talk to your doctor about balancing solids and milk.
Conclusion:
Dealing with a baby who pushes away the bottle can be tough. But remember, it’s a common problem that many parents face. Most of the time, it’s just a phase that will pass.
There are many reasons why babies might refuse bottles. It could be the position, the formula, or even just being distracted. By understanding these reasons, you can find ways to help your baby.
The key is to stay calm and keep trying different things. What works one day might not work the next. That’s just how babies are! Be patient with your baby and with yourself.
Remember to create a calm feeding environment. Try different bottles and positions. And don’t be afraid to ask for help. Your doctor is there to support you.
Most importantly, trust your instincts. You know your baby best. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to reach out to a professional.
Feeding time should be a special time for you and your baby. With patience and love, you’ll find a way to make it work.
Your baby will get the food they need, and you’ll get to enjoy those precious moments together.
