Apricot Oil

glennisj

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I have two cats, 16 and 18, with tumors and I was given Apricot oil for them.  I looked online and found conflicting articles about apricot oil as a help against cancer and also as a hazardous substance for cats.  Does anyone no whether apricot oil is good or bad for cats?
 
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glennisj

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I went to a holistic vet after getting discouraging diagnosis from the animal clinic.  She gave me the apricot oil.  It doesn't seem to hurt them, but I've seen some negative things online.
 

goholistic

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Is what you have called "apricot kernel oil"? That is usually what its called from my experience. I'm assuming you mean it is taken by the cats internally. I do not have any experience using apricot oil in this way...only externally for myself.

I tend to go about these things rather scientifically.  
  I would ask your holistic vet specifically why she recommends apricot oil. What is in it that she feels would help your cats?

There are three main types of fatty acids - omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9. Based on my experience from the products I have used and seen, apricot kernel oil is high in oleic acid (an omega-9 fatty acid) followed by linoleic acid (an omega-6 fatty acid). Most suppliers will provide the percentages. Omega-3 and omega-6 are essential fatty acids and there's a lot of literature out there about having the right balance (i.e., ratio) between these two. Not enough omega-3 and/or too much omega-6 could be a bad thing. This blog post explains omega-3 and -6. However, according to peteducation.com, "Omega-9's actually decrease the concentrations of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in the blood and skin."

In summary, my personal objection to using apricot oil would be the higher concentrations of those particular fatty acids (9 and 6) that could offset the overall balance.

Does your holistic vet specialize in Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine?

P.S. So sorry about the diagnosis. In both your cats? Gosh. 
 
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