Newborns should generally feed about 8 to 12 times in 24 hours, which is approximately every 2 to 3 hours. This frequent feeding is because breast milk is easily digested and newborns have small stomachs, so they need to eat often. Feeding should be "on demand," responding to early hunger cues such as restlessness or sucking motions, rather than strictly on a schedule. Newborns should not go more than about 4 hours without feeding, even at night. As the baby grows past the first month, the number of feedings often decreases to around 7 to 9 times a day, and feeding intervals may gradually lengthen. Breastfed babies typically nurse every 2 hours, while formula-fed babies may feed every 2 to 3 hours. The key is to watch for the baby's hunger signals and feed accordingly, supporting the baby's growth and milk supply during this critical period.