Cow's Milk and your Child

At twelve months your baby can switch from formula or breastmilk (as you wish) to cow’s milk.  Cow’s milk does not contain sufficient levels of iron that formula or breastmilk do, so it is  advised to wait until your child reaches her first birthday before introducing it.

It's important to remember that some babies will be allergic to cow's milk, even if they haven't had a problem drinking a formula that's based on cow's milk. If your child reacts to cow's milk by vomiting or develops a red bottom, it's likely that they have an intolerance. If your child has had an allergic reaction to a formula based on cow's milk, you should avoid giving them cow's milk and talk to your Dr about alternatives.

Make sure it is fresh and full fat, not semi skimmed as your baby needs the extra fat to help her brain and nervous system develop properly. She needs to have a minimum of two thirds of a pint of milk a day; this roughly equates to two beakers or cups of milk. If she drinks too much milk she will store the fat in her body, so if she is thirsty offer water or watered down fruit juice.

How should my baby drink cow’s milk?
If your baby is used to a bottle it might be a good idea to introduce a beaker with a lid or a slanted open top cup like a Doidy cup. This is so your baby stops being so dependent on getting milk from a teat. If your baby never had a bottle and is used to breastfeeding you may could try to introduce the beaker or cup for her milk and by pass the bottle all together.

What if she hates the idea of Cow’s milk?
Persevere with the cow’s milk but if she only takes a little bit, make sure she is getting other calcium-rich foods as part of her diet. Try Mashed sardines, cheese and natural yoghurt. Remember that breastmilk and formula were probably not given to your child cold, so it may be helpful to warm the cow’s milk slightly (be careful it isn’t too hot) before giving it to your baby.

For more information on cow's milk, you can talk to other mums on the MumsinSpain forums.