This is how we bottle feed our babies that works well for us.
When babies go to their new homes(if they leave after 1 week old), they can have up to 12 oz twice a day approx. 12 hours apart. Example: if they get a feeding at 8am they will get another feeding at 8pm. Each baby should be assessed on their own individual needs. Smaller babies will drink less, bigger babies will drink more. Younger babies will drink less but as they grow they will drink more. Heat the milk up to 103 degrees F on the stove top. Microwaving milk is not recommended as it can kill the nutrients in the milk.
​
We will send some of our goat milk along with each baby. If you decide to feed whole cow milk instead we recommend following these steps to help make it easier on their tummies: The first three days 75% goat milk 25% cow milk, the next three days 50% of each, the next 3 days 25% goat milk 75% cow milk, and on day 10 they can be on 100% cow milk. Please make sure to get whole cow milk as babies need the full fat content.
​
From day 1 when bringing a bottle baby home they should have access to fresh water(they might not drink much yet but it's good to always have it available), free choice second cut grass hay, choice of loose goat mineral(easiest to get is Manna Pro Goat mineral from Tractor Supply but we personally do not use that one), and a 16% goat grain if you choose to give grain. We used to give grain but are now keeping our retained doelings on the bottle longer(at least 12 weeks old) to help them grow(since we have the extra milk that is a good way to put it to use, and helps keep the cost of grain down). Once babies reach 6 months of age, grain is not offered unless we feel it necessary.