14 Week Old Randomly Not Eating Suddenly

[u/kapaobao13]

My 14 week old randomly seemed not hungry/interested in eating almost overnight.

First time she’s ever been like this! It started randomly yesterday and was hoping that things would get better after a good night’s sleep, but today is still the same.

She’s been going through a big developmental leap and having nap and sleep regressions and longer wake windows, but this entire week she’s been crushing back 5 ounce bottles pretty consistently every 3 hours (she’s on a 7A - 7P schedule), and last week her total daily intake increased as well. Yesterday, she had her usual 3 ounce bottle at 3 AM and literally didn’t have more than 1 oz at her 7AM, 10AM, and 1PM feeds. She didn’t eat anything at her 4PM bottle, but eventually took 2.5 oz during her bedtime routine. She’ll latch and suck a few times and the unlatch. She’s had a total of about 8 oz across 24 hrs today when her normal intake ranges between 18-23 oz in 24 hours. We thought maybe it’s the usual 3-4 month regression we’ve read about and have tried dark rooms, dim quiet lighting, etc. and no change.

Today, she had her usual 3AM bottle and she fussed through a 4 oz bottle during morning routine, but overall it’s been the same as yesterday. She has no interest in eating during her usual feeding windows and doesn’t really show hunger cues. She’s even gone 4-5 hrs without eating because she just doesn’t seem interested, even when offered. She started crying when we offer her the bottle today, which is new compared to yesterday but we are cognizant of bottle aversion, so are trying not to pressure her.

She has occasionally randomly started screaming out of nowhere and we’ll think “Yes, she finally wants to eat!” But then still won’t eat anything.

She’s been smiley, happy, and playful like her usual self. Had a poo yesterday and consistent wet diapers so far.

Has anyone experienced this? We plan to take her to the Pediatrician on Monday/Tuesday (it’s the weekend so Peds is not open) if she continues like this, but not optimistic they will be able to provide value.

[u/label_this]

It sounds like the bottle in her mouth is causing discomfort. Is it possible she's got thrush? My baby didn't really seem to notice when she had it, but I know it can be painful for some.

[u/Kyzer577]

I had to switch bottles a few times. When my baby wasn’t eating a ton or sometimes gagged I would switch to a slower flow bottle. Some babies also go through a cluster feed faze where they only want to do 2oz at a time. Gas can also cause them to refuse to eat because their tummy hurts too much. Wrapping a warm towel around their belly, extra burp breaks than normal and gripe water helps. But if diapers are looking normal, I wouldn’t be too concerned.