THE RSPCA has urged people to make sure their pets are safe and warm as temperatures plummet below zero.

The animal charity has asked people to keep a close eye on outdoor pets such as rabbits and guinea pigs during the cold nights or move them into an outhouse or shed.

If this is not possible then extra bedding and protection from the adverse weather is advised.

The Met Office forecast snow showers for parts of Scotland, Northern Ireland, Wales, northern England and the Midlands with yellow and amber severe weather warnings issued.

RSPCA scientific officer Llewelyn Lowen said: “As the weather turns colder it is important to think about what we can do to help our animal friends.

“Every year, between one and two thousand wild animals are brought into RSPCA wildlife centres in December, January and February suffering from dehydration, hunger and cold.

“A few little changes to your everyday routine can really make a difference to animals.

“For example, a little bit of extra food left out for a hungry bird may be the help it needs to last through a spate of frosty weather or, if you have rabbits kept outside, you will need to provide them with lots of extra bedding and their home should be placed in a sheltered position, facing away from the prevailing wind and rain.”

An RSPCA spokesman said rabbits and guinea pigs should be housed in a hutch, with a sloped roof to allow water to drain away.

Hutches should be raised off the ground by at least four inches and placed in a sheltered position, facing away from wind and rain.