How to Encourage a Breastfed Baby to Accept the Bottle

If you breastfeed your baby, you may want her to take a bottle occasionally. If your baby is older, she may be resistant to doing so. Once a baby has become accomstomed to nursing, it may be difficult to get to to feed from a bottle when she is at the babysitter or if your partner would like to feed her. If your breastfed baby is refusing the bottle, try the tips here to encourage her.

Instructions

1

Try giving your baby the bottle when she has an empty stomach. She may be more receptive to eating from the bottle when she is hungry.

2

Try giving your baby the bottle when his tummy is full. If your baby rejects the bottle on an empty stomach, it may be because he is too frustrated to try something new when he hungry. Give him the bottle between feedings. He may be in the mood for a snack and since he is not really hungry, he may be willing to give the bottle a try.

3

Play with your baby before you offer the bottle. Give him the bottle before you try to feed him. If he has a chance to play with the bottle and get used to it, he may be more likely accept it as a food source. If you allow him to play with the bottle, he may even put it in his mouth himself (like he does with everything else).

4

Let someone else give your baby the bottle. She will be more likely to accept the bottle from her dad or grandma. Make sure that you are out of the room and out of sight. If her typical source of food is out of the picture, she may be more likely to take the bottle. Be sure to stay away until your baby is used to the bottle. Even hearing the sound of your voice may cause her to reject the bottle in the hopes of nursing.

5

Fill the bottle with your baby's favorite liquid. Some babies will be more likely to accept the bottle if it is filled with breast milk. But for others, the breast milk only serves to remind the baby that she wants her mommy and wants to nurse. If your baby refuses a bottle of breast milk, try formula or diluted fruit juice.

6

Know when to call it quits. Do not let the bottle become a battle. You and your baby will just become frustated and upset. If your baby rejects the bottle, take it away and try later. Keep trying and keep your cool. Being persistant and calm will probably be all it takes to get your baby to eventually accept the bottle.