Hunger - probably a stretch but could be. You could always keep the bottle for now and see what happens with the NWs. My ds doesn't get bottles anymore, but I still give hima sippy of warm milk before bed. Maybe worth a shot.
Paci - that's a tough call as if the NWs are not due to the paci, it wouldn't be a great time to wean. Is he always missing it when you go in his room during a NW? And do you really have to look around for it? I have ds' paci attached to him on a safety string we got in the US from the brand mam. it attaches to his sleeping bag, so it's always around, but the cord is lightweight and velcro so does not pose a choking hazard. Maybe an idea?
I am also grasping a bit at straws with your situation and the only other thing I can think of is that he is experiencing some SA and just needs to be comforted in the night. If you think that comfort is getting to be a habit for him, I might try doing WI/WO so you can let him know you're there but not giving him any assistance with sleeping. Have you tried that method before?
