Why is it difficult to feed a baby with a cleft palate?

No good suck: A baby with a cleft lip & palate can't generate the suction to nipple or breast feed, so without special bottle feeding and help from the parents, they burn more calories eating than they get from their milk/formula. An occupational therapist or nutritionist that works with your child's cleft surgeon & pediatrician should work with you to ensure your child is gaining weight appropriately.

Hole in top of mouth: The cleft of the palate prevents the baby from getting good, prolonged suction and will tire out quickly. There are a number of special cleft bottles that allow the baby to get milk easily without needing much suck.

Poor suction: With a cleft lip or even a cleft palate, sometimes your baby cannot get a proper seal or suction. There are a number of professionals that can assist you in helping make sure your baby is getting fed well.