The worst part of a hot spot is the loop it creates. The skin itches, the dog licks, the licking keeps it wet and sore, and by morning a small patch has doubled in size. Getting something soothing onto the area quickly is what breaks that cycle, and a fine mist reaches the skin under the fur without you needing to part and hold the coat with your other hand.

The formula is odourless and lick-safe, which is the detail that actually matters, because a spray that smells medicinal or tastes bitter gets licked off in a fury and makes the licking worse. It goes on non-greasy and absorbs quickly, so it does not leave a sticky patch that collects dirt or mats the fur around it. The nozzle handles awkward places: between toes, behind an elbow, the base of the tail.

• Soothes redness and minor surface irritation from scratching or allergies
• Odourless and lick-safe formula
• Fine-mist nozzle reaches the skin through the coat
• Non-greasy, absorbs without leaving residue
• Suitable for dogs and cats
• A sensible addition to a home grooming and first-aid kit

Where this stops. It is for minor surface irritation only. Spot-test a small area first, keep it well away from the eyes, and do not use it on broken, weeping or spreading skin. Anything that has been there more than a couple of days, smells, or is growing needs a vet, because persistent itching is usually a symptom of something underneath and treating the surface will not fix the cause.

Who it's for: Owners of itchy, allergy-prone dogs and cats who want something gentle on hand for the first day of a flare-up.