How to Tell If Your Baby Is Still Hungry After a Bottle

A no-stress guide for confused, exhausted parents

You just fed the baby… again. But they’re still fussing, squirming, and staring you down like you forgot the second course. Are they still hungry—or just being a baby?

If you’ve ever stared at an empty bottle wondering if you’re doing this right, you’re in the right place.

Here’s how to tell if your baby truly needs more to eat—or something else entirely.

Signs Your Baby Might Still Be Hungry

Some babies just love to suck, even when they’re full. Here’s how to know they’ve had enough:

  • Turning away from the bottle or nipple
  • Pushing out the nipple with their tongue
  • Slowing down or falling asleep mid-feed
    Try a bottle with a slower flow nipple, like Dr. Brown’s Level 1 Bottle, if this happens often.
  • Relaxed arms and hands
  • Spitting up more than usual

These are your baby’s polite way of saying, “I’m good, thanks.”

Not Sure? Use the Feeding Calculator

Feeding isn’t guesswork anymore. If you’re wondering how much they should be eating based on their weight and age, you don’t have to wing it.

Use our free Feeding Calculator to estimate daily and per-feeding ounces in seconds.

Just enter your baby’s weight and how many times they eat, and you’ll get a personalized recommendation.

If It’s Not Hunger, Then What?

Not every fuss is food-related. Before offering more milk, consider these possibilities:

  • Needs a burp: Swallowed air can cause discomfort or mimic hunger signs.
  • Wants comfort: Some babies use sucking to self-soothe.
    In that case, a gentle pacifier like the Philips Avent Soothie can help satisfy the urge without overfeeding.
  • Tummy trouble: Gas, reflux, or poop brewing can make a baby fussy post-feed.
  • Too tired to settle: Overstimulation or fatigue can lead to hunger-like crying.
  • Growth spurt: They might actually be hungrier today—and that’s normal.

Final Tip:

You know your baby best. If you’re consistently unsure, keep a simple feeding log for 2–3 days and talk to your pediatrician.

But in the meantime? Trust your instincts—and use tools that help you feel confident.

Baby Feeding Starter Kit:

You’ve got this. And we’ve got your back.

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