Objective To develop an oral feeding protocol for very low birth weight infants during their hospitalization, to provide a reference for standardized oral feeding practice for the infants, to smooth the process of oral feeding and promote infants′ growth and development. Methods Guided by the Synactive Theory of Development, the best evidence for oral feeding in very low birth weight infants was summarized through evidence-based methodology. Following discussions in the research group, the first draft of the oral feeding protocol for very low birth weight infants during hospitalization was developed. This protocol underwent validation through organizing two meetings of expert and was subsequently revised and improved according to expert opinion combined with clinical practice considerations. Results A comprehensive oral feeding protocol for very low birth weight infants during hospitalization was finalized, which consisted of six stages:preparation for oral feeding upon admission, trophic feeding (breastmilk drip feeding, individualized breastmilk drip feeding through the pacifier), attempted oral bottle feeding every 12 hours, attempted oral bottle feeding every 6 hours, attempted oral bottle feeding at every feeding, and breastfeeding by mother. Conclusion The evidence-based oral feeding protocol for very low birth weight infants during hospitalization is scientific, and has good clinical appropriateness, offering a reference for effective and standardized oral feeding practices in clinical practice in the future.