The Met Office has issued a five-day cold weather alert, saying that the UK will be hit by a severe cold spell.

Temperatures are expected to plunge to be below freezing in England by the middle of the week, reaching -6°C in some areas.

The low-temperature warning has led the UK Health Security Agency to issue its own alert.

It said there could be “serious consequences” and urged people to take steps to keep warm.

But, during this cold snap, how can we keep our pets warm? Here’s everything you need to know.

Keep them inside

Keep your pets inside as much as possible. If they are left outside, they can get cold or wet which could make them sick.

Wrap them up

If you have a short-haired dog, dress them in a cosy long sweater for walks. The RSPCA recommends dressing both your pup and yourself in reflective clothing to make sure you’re visible if going for a night-time walk.

February 2018: London Snow - In pictures

Keep your pets hydrated

Staying warm will use up a lot of your pet’s energy, so make sure they have plenty of fresh water. Pets should also be given more food during the winter months, so make sure they are eating enough.

Don’t let them run over frozen lakes

The RSPCA recommends keeping your dog away from frozen lakes that crack and break under the weight. It’s also good to ensure their paws don’t get impacted by the snow.

Provide extra bedding

If you have an outdoor pet, like a rabbit, provide them with extra bedding for warmth and, if possible, move them to a shed or unused garage for shelter.

Pop a hot water bottle under their bed if you have a chilly house

By placing it under their bedding, this will keep them warm overnight - but make sure there are no leaks that could scald your pet.