Heat shield

I have a 1998 Honda CRV. The top half of the catalytic converter heatshield detached and started rattling so I took it off. Is it dangerous to drive without the heatshield

If the catalytic converter is positioned close to the underside of the vehicle, the heat from the converter can start to burn the carpeting inside the passenger cabin. When a lower heat sheild falls off or is removed, this isn’t too much of an issue. But when the top half is removed this possiblity should be taken under consideration.

Tester