Virbac Cortavance spray, 76 ml is a medicine for the symptomatic treatment of inflammatory and itchy skin conditions in dogs. The active ingredient is hydrocortisone aceponate (0.584 mg per ml), a corticosteroid that acts directly in the skin to reduce redness, swelling and itching. It's sprayed once a day on affected areas for 7 days. Dosing is simple: two pumps per 10 by 10 cm area, with no rubbing in.
What it is and who makes it
Cortavance is made by the French veterinary company Virbac. It's prescribed for allergic and atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, moist eczema and other itchy skin lesions. It doesn't treat the cause of itching — fleas, food allergy or infection — but relieves inflammation while the cause is found and dealt with.
How to use it
- Treat outdoors or in a well-ventilated room.
- Fit the spray nozzle to the bottle.
- Spray from about 10 cm onto the affected skin.
- The dose is 2 pumps per 10 by 10 cm area.
- Don't rub or massage it in.
- Repeat once a day for 7 days in a row.
- Avoid the eyes and mucous membranes; wash your hands afterwards.
If there's no improvement after the course, go back to the vet to review treatment.
Pros
- Fast itch relief. The dog scratches less and doesn't damage the skin.
- Precise dose. Two pumps per 10×10 cm is easy to work out.
- No rubbing. Convenient on sore, sensitive skin.
- Once a day. A simple 7-day schedule.
- Well tolerated. Per the instructions, the only side effect is very rare redness.
Cons and what to keep in mind
- Prescription use only. It's a corticosteroid; a vet must make the diagnosis.
- Not for cats. It's intended for dogs only.
- Not on ulcers. Don't apply it to open wounds or ulcers.
- Restrictions. Pregnant and nursing dogs and puppies under 7 months — only at a vet's discretion.
- Flammable. Don't spray near flames or heaters.
- Not with other topical products. Using them at the same time isn't recommended.
Why dogs itch
Common causes of itching are fleas and flea bite allergy, food allergy, atopic dermatitis, bacterial and fungal skin infections, and mange mites. Cortavance relieves symptoms, but if fleas are the cause, the itch will return without flea treatment. If food allergy is suspected, a vet may prescribe an elimination diet such as Brit Veterinary Diet Hypoallergenic. On parasite protection, see fleas and ticks in dogs.
Skin care with atopy
With atopic dermatitis, it's not just the anti-inflammatory that matters but restoring the skin barrier: gentle shampoos, moisturisers and omega-3 in the diet. For example, Douxo S3 Calm shampoo helps soothe sensitive skin between flare-ups. How to wash a dog properly — see dog shampoo: how to choose and how to wash.
Who it suits
Dogs with itchy and inflammatory skin conditions — allergic, atopic and contact dermatitis, moist eczema — as prescribed by a vet. Other medicines are in the veterinary pharmacy.
Verdict
Cortavance is a convenient and effective spray for quickly relieving itching and skin inflammation in dogs: a clear dose, once a day, no rubbing. It's a steroid, so it's used only after a vet's examination, while the cause of the itch is investigated.
How to treat your dog so it doesn't lick the spray off
Treat your dog after a walk and a meal, when it's calm. Part the coat with your fingers so the spray reaches the skin rather than the hair tips. Afterwards, distract your dog with play or a lead walk for 15–20 minutes while the spray absorbs. If the paws or other easily reached areas are affected, a vet may suggest a protective cone or body suit for the course. Note which areas you treat and photograph them on the first and last day — it makes the result easier to judge.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days should Cortavance be used?
Per the instructions, 7 days, once a day.
How many pumps are needed?
2 pumps per 10 by 10 cm area of skin.
Can Cortavance be used on cats?
No, it's intended for dogs.
Should the spray be rubbed in?
No, no massage is needed after application.
Can it be applied to wounds?
No, it's contraindicated where there are skin ulcers.
How long does an opened bottle last?
Per the instructions, 6 months after opening.
