Drinking strike, how long does it last?

SpartanRN

My 9 month old has started refusing formula the past few days. He usually drinks 24 ounces a day, but today he took maybe 14 oz. Everyday for the past few days he seems to be drinking less and less.  No change in routine, no extra solids. His ears are fine, they were just checked at his 9 month appointment. I don't think there is anything wrong that is causing him to stop drinking his bottle, I'm hoping it's just a short phase. I know others have had this happen too, just wondering how long this little drinking strike might last.

He doesn't 'get' the sippy yet, and won't take more than a couple of small sips of water or juice before he pushes it away like the bottle. I'm sure he won't get dehydrated, but I really want him to get more fluids. Any advice on reversing this trend would be appreciated!

vrj0522

My LO did this at around 7 months just before his first tooth broke through. I'm not sure if this might be the case but you might have teeth coming in, maybe several at the same time and the bottle is uncomfortable. I don't think it lasts long but if it goes long enough to become a concern, I would try lowering the amount of solids so that he is more hungry and willing to take a bottle. 

Hotgirl2164

My baby girl did this too, I was so concerned I took her to the doctor and he said she was teething. The bottle hurts their gums when they are teething. He reassured me that she is fine and not to worry she would eat when she's comfortable and ready, and she did.  Anyway like a week later 2 teeth popped out!  She went back to her normal feedings in no time. Good luck!