Newborn lost appetite.

magic_murph

We have a 5 week old at home who up until the last two days was a savage for the bottle – easily taking 4 oz with another 1-2 as a top up and that was the majority of feeds. The dream feed would usually be 2-3 oz but sometimes more basically feeding was never a problem.

For the past 2 days he has been disinterested in feeding taking only 1-2 oz at a time and just not settling into his sleep.
If he’s not taking as much in each feed (Oz wise) would it be a problem to include an extra scoop or two of formula so he’s getting more of the good stuff in the smaller amount he takes?

Loveinapril

magic_murph wrote: »

would it be a problem to include an extra scoop or two of formula so he’s getting more of the good stuff in the smaller amount he takes?

Yes, this could make your baby ill. There needs to be one scoop to every ounce of hot water as per the instructions on the tub. You should bring baby to the doctor if they aren't taking in the recommended amount in 24 hours. When they are that little, you should really bring them to the GP with most concerns.

jlm29

magic_murph wrote: »

If he’s not taking as much in each feed (Oz wise) would it be a problem to include an extra scoop or two of formula so he’s getting more of the good stuff in the smaller amount he takes?

Yes, it would be a problem. You need to make up the formula according to the instructions. As above, if you’re concerned take him to the GP, or give your PHN a call for advice.

magic_murph

Thanks - thought the same but wanted to ask.
We are doing to try the little and often approach today to see if we can get his intake up throughout the day.
If no improvement the GP will be the next option ( we have checked temp and everything is fine in that regard)

Princess Calla

No, they advise against adding more or less formula to the bottle.

You are coming up to the 6 week check up. If you are concerned bring the baby to Dr a few days early.

In meantime monitor what the baby actually is taking.

Monitor how wet the nappies are and how many dirty nappies are being produced.

Do watch the fluid levels though as babies can dehydrate very quickly.

Your instinct will guide you, if you think things are off, go to the Dr.

shesty

No, don't add extra scoops.
He may be very windy.At that age, I would do smaller bottles more often, wind well, and if it doesn't improve fairly quickly, doctor.Log his feeds too, keep track so you can see what he is getting.Newborns can go downhill quickly if something is wrong, so always best to go for medical advice.Medically he is viewed as a newborn.up to 12 weeks.

magic_murph

All good advice - thanks