4 month old feeding schedule
How much and how often to feed a 4-month-old: 5–6 feeds (every 3–4 h), with formula-fed babies taking 4–6 oz per feed.
- How often
- 5–6 feeds (every 3–4 h)
- Daily total
- about 24–32 oz
- By weight (median baby)
- ~32 oz / day
Breastfed babies
About 6–8 feeds. Distractibility is common: a quiet, dim room can help.
Solids
Not yet for most babies. The AAP and WHO advise starting at around 6 months.
Formula intake rarely needs to go above 32 oz a day. If your baby seems hungrier, talk to your paediatrician about readiness for solids.
Is my baby getting enough?
The best signs are steady weight gain along a similar percentile, 6 or more wet nappies a day after the first week, and a baby who seems content after most feeds. Amounts on this page are averages: some healthy babies take noticeably more or less. Check your baby's weight on the baby weight percentile calculator, or work out amounts from their exact weight with the baby feeding calculator.
Sleep and feeds shape each other: see the 4-month-old sleep schedule.
Frequently asked questions
How much should a 4-month-old eat?
Formula-fed: typically 4–6 oz (120–180 ml) per feed, 5–6 feeds (every 3–4 h), about 24–32 oz a day. About 6–8 feeds. Distractibility is common: a quiet, dim room can help.
How often should a 4-month-old eat?
5–6 feeds (every 3–4 h). Feed on hunger cues (rooting, sucking hands, lip smacking) rather than strictly by the clock, and stop when your baby turns away or slows down.
How much formula for a 4-month-old by weight?
The AAP rule of thumb is about 2.5 oz per pound of body weight per day, up to 32 oz. A 4-month-old at the WHO median weight (about 14.8 lb) would need roughly 32 oz a day. Use the feeding calculator for your baby's own weight.
Can a 4-month-old have solids?
Not yet for most babies. The AAP and WHO advise starting at around 6 months.
What are the signs of overfeeding?
Frequent large spit-ups, a tight or bloated tummy, gassiness and fussing after feeds, and very rapid weight gain can all point to too much milk, particularly with bottles. Paced bottle feeding and responding to fullness cues help. Mention persistent symptoms to your paediatrician.
Sources: CDC "How Much and How Often to Feed Infant Formula"; AAP HealthyChildren.org "Amount and Schedule of Baby Formula Feedings" and "Starting Solid Foods"; Kent JC et al., Pediatrics 2006 (breast milk intake); WHO infant feeding recommendations. Median weights from the WHO Child Growth Standards.