Is this normal?
Yes. During a fever it is common for babies to eat less or refuse solids for a day or two. The body prioritizes fighting infection, and appetite temporarily dips. If your baby is drinking some fluids, having wet diapers, and seems a bit brighter between naps, this is usually okay.
Both the AAP and NHS note that hydration and comfort are the priorities during a fever. It is fine if solids take a back seat for a short time, especially if your baby is still breastfeeding or taking formula. Appetite generally returns as the fever settles.
Be mindful of age-specific fever thresholds and dehydration signs. Call your clinician sooner for very young babies or if your child has red flags listed below.
Why it happens
- Normal illness response lowers appetite while the immune system works.
- Sore throat, mouth ulcers, or teething can make swallowing uncomfortable.
- Nasal congestion makes it harder to coordinate suck, swallow, and breathe.
- Ear infections or tummy upset can reduce interest in feeding.
- Sleepiness and fatigue from fever mean shorter, less frequent feeds.
- Mild stomach irritation from illness or medicines can blunt appetite.
What to try today
Prioritize fluids
Offer breast milk or formula more often in small, frequent amounts. If your baby is over 6 months, offer sips of water with meals. An oral rehydration solution can help replace fluids and salts if intake is low or there has been vomiting, as supported by WHO guidance.
Keep feeds low-pressure
Follow your baby’s cues and do not force solids. Try short, frequent offers every 1 to 2 hours while awake. Aim for at least one wet diaper every 6 to 8 hours.
Offer cool, soft, easy foods
If your baby eats solids, serve soothing options like yogurt, mashed banana, applesauce, pear puree, avocado, or well-cooked oats. Cold spoonfuls can be comforting for a sore throat. Avoid honey under 12 months.
Ease congestion and discomfort
Use saline drops and gentle suction before feeds, run a cool-mist humidifier, and keep your baby slightly upright during and after feeds. Dress lightly and keep the room comfortably cool, as the NHS advises.
Use fever medicine if needed
If your baby seems uncomfortable, speak with your clinician about acetaminophen or, if 6 months or older, ibuprofen. Use weight-based dosing and the proper device. Never give aspirin. The AAP advises against over-the-counter cough and cold medicines for young children.
Watch hydration and rest
Offer fluids before solids and allow extra naps. Track wet diapers and temperature. If there is no urine for 8 hours, or your baby is taking less than half their usual fluids, call your doctor.
When to call the doctor
- Age under 3 months with a temperature of 38 C (100.4 F) or higher.
- Age 3 to 6 months with a temperature of 39 C (102.2 F) or higher, or any age with 40 C (104 F) or higher.
- Signs of dehydration: no urine for 8 hours, very dry mouth, no tears, sunken soft spot, or fewer than half the usual wet diapers in 24 hours.
- Breathing trouble, persistent vomiting, unusual sleepiness or difficulty waking, stiff neck, seizure, or a rash that does not fade when pressed with a clear glass.
- Refusing all fluids for 6 hours or more, or fever lasting more than 3 days.
Frequently asked questions
How long can appetite stay low with a fever?
Often 1 to 3 days. Hydration is the priority. If appetite has not begun to improve after 3 days, or your baby shows red flags, contact your clinician. This aligns with general AAP and NHS advice.
Should I wake my baby to feed during a fever?
Let your baby sleep, but offer fluids more often when awake. If there has been no urine for 8 hours or your baby is very young and sleeping through feeds, wake to offer milk and call your doctor if intake stays low.
What should I feed a feverish baby who eats solids?
Start with fluids, then offer soft, easy foods like yogurt, applesauce, mashed banana, pear puree, avocado, or thin soups. Small, frequent portions are usually better tolerated.
Can I give acetaminophen or ibuprofen for comfort?
Ask your clinician for weight-based dosing. Acetaminophen is commonly used; ibuprofen is for babies 6 months and older. Never give aspirin, and avoid over-the-counter cough and cold medicines in young children, per AAP guidance.
How do I know if my baby is dehydrated?
Watch for fewer wet diapers than usual, no urine for 8 hours, dry mouth, no tears, sunken soft spot, or unusual sleepiness. These are reasons to call your doctor promptly and are highlighted by NHS and WHO.
Is dairy okay during a fever?
Yes if your baby tolerates it. Yogurt or milk can be soothing and provide calories. Focus more on fluids and comfort than on specific food rules.
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