- Babies eat different amounts at each feeding. Generally, 2.5 to 3 ounces for every pound of body weight per day is the norm. For example, a 7 pound newborn will take approximately 17.5-21 ounces of formula per day. Please remember that this is an approximation.
- Observe for your baby’s feeding cues: rooting, crying, and bringing hands to mouth.
- Feed your baby when he/she seems hungry, burp your baby, and then attempt to feed again. Babies stop eating when they have a gas bubble, but once they are burped, they usually continue the feeding.
- The frequency of feeds tends to decrease as the baby gets older and begins consuming more formula with each feeding.
Average Infant Formula-Feeding Guidelines
(Guidelines obtained from Similac)
Age | Average # of Feeds in 24 hrs. | Average amount per Feeding (in fluid oz) | Average Amount per Day (in fluid oz) |
| 1-2 weeks | 6-10 | 2-3 | 12-30 |
| 3-4 weeks | 6-8 | 3-4 | 18-32 |
| 1-2 months | 5-6 | 4-5 | 20-30 |
| 2-3 months | 5-6 | 5-6 | 25-36 |
| 3-4 months | 4-5 | 6-7 | 24-35 |
| 4-7 months | 4-5 | 7-8 | 28-40 |
| 7-9 months | 3-4 | 7-8 | 21-32 |
| 9-12 months | 3 | 7-8 | 21-24 |
