7-8 weeks old. Where should we be?

[Templeton]

I have concerns over what my baby is eating — more accurately, what she is not eating.

She is between 7 and 8 weeks old. Weighed 190g this morning. Is taking FV 20/50 currently at 13.5ml per feeding, every 5 hours.

We introduced Henry’s Healthy Blocks, apple sticks, and a water bottle now about two weeks ago.

• She still only tears up the blocks for a minute or two and leaves the rest to be cleaned up. I clean it out and replace it each day. I don’t think she’s eating any of it, to be honest. I’ve ordered Picky Blocks but am still waiting on them to arrive.

• She has completely ignored the water bottle. She investigated it the day we put it in, but hasn’t gone to it for any water at all.

• She ignores the apple sticks, essentially pushing them aside and out of her way. There is also a small piece of antler in the cage, but the only thing I’ve ever caught her chewing on is the cage itself.

So I’m wondering, where *should we be* at 7-to-8 weeks with all of these things? I’m a concerned worrywart daddy.

Thank you!

[HRT4SQRLS]

I would space the formula out to 6 hour intervals. You are right on target with the amount. When you space it out you should see her formula intake increase to 10% or even greater.

I think she will like the Picky Eater block. That’s all I buy. They do crumble them at first but eventually eat them. I give babies a half block so as to not be wasteful.

Some chew sticks, others don’t. She might like a small oak branch if you have those.

When she is eating solids she will use the water bottle. She is getting hydration from her formula and doesn’t need water yet. In the nest with mom, they would not be getting water.

[Templeton]

I would space the formula out to 6 hour intervals. You are right on target with the amount. When you space it out you should see her formula intake increase to 10% or even greater.

When she is eating solids she will use the water bottle. She is getting hydration from her formula and doesn’t need water yet. In the nest with mom, they would not be getting water.

I will try spacing out the formula and doing the increase!

And the whole no-need-to-hydrate makes *perfect sense*!!! I didn’t even think of that! Thank you!!!

[Lighten-Up]

I have never had a baby/juvenile squirrel chew on an antler. Though I have always offered it. I have antlers out in the yard also, and the only ones I see frequent them daily are the wild nursing moms.