Can a non spayed cat who has never been pregnant nurse an adopted kitten?

It's unlikely, but not impossible, for a non-spayed cat who has never been pregnant to nurse an adopted kitten. Here's why:

Unlikely:

* Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy and giving birth trigger hormonal changes in a female cat that prepare her body for lactation. Without these hormonal shifts, milk production is unlikely.

* Instinctual Behavior: While some cats might instinctively attempt to nurse, it's not a guaranteed behavior.

* Rejection: Even if the cat tries to nurse, she might reject the kitten if she doesn't recognize it as her own.

Possible, but less likely:

* Stress and Lactation: Extreme stress, particularly in a cat that's recently given birth but lost her litter, can sometimes trigger lactation even if she wasn't pregnant. This is rare and not a reliable option.

* Hormonal Supplementation: Veterinarians can prescribe hormonal supplements to encourage lactation in some cases. However, this is not a common practice and has its own risks.

What to Do Instead:

* Bottle-Feeding: The most reliable way to feed an orphaned kitten is through bottle-feeding. There are plenty of resources available online and at your local pet store to help you learn how.

* Kittens and Mothers: If you have a nursing mother cat, consider introducing the kitten to her litter. This will provide the kitten with the best possible care and nutrition.

* Foster Parents: Reach out to animal shelters or rescue groups. They often have foster parents who can care for orphaned kittens.

It's crucial to provide a kitten with the nourishment it needs. If you're unsure about the best course of action, contact a veterinarian or animal welfare organization for advice.