outdoor only cat/kitten??? advise please

[mklanch]

hi,
about 2 years ago i brought a ragdoll kitten. i adored this kitten with all my heart, but my husband found out he was very allergic to cats! after 6 weeks of trying everything our doctor told us our only option was to rehome the kitten or have him as an outdoor only cat. we chose to rehome as he was far to friendly and trusting to be an outdoor cat.
it was one of the most heart breaking things i have had to do as i had a real connection to this cat.
since then we have moved to a bungalow with 2 acres where i am running my smallholding. we have some brick outbuildings and it got me thinking that perhaps i can get an outdoor cat. i would insulate the outbuilding and the cat would get alot of attention as i'm outside all the time anyway.
i have spoke to my husband and he is fine with this, as he knows as long as he doesn't touch the cat his allergies will be fine.
the problem is i do not want a feral cat. i have 2 children (10 and 13).
i would like to hear peoples views on this.
has anyone got a friendly outdoor only cat? etc
thank you

I’d adopt an ex farm/barn cat from a rescue rather than raise a kitten for the purpose. Though tbh, if your husband is that severely allergic to cats, I’d just not bother getting a cat (and I’m a cat lover).

@BalladOfBarryAndFreda

I’d adopt an ex farm/barn cat from a rescue rather than raise a kitten for the purpose. Though tbh, if your husband is that severely allergic to cats, I’d just not bother getting a cat (and I’m a cat lover).

yes i was thinking the same. although my daughter goes to a friends house who has a cat and he doesn't flare up when she comes home. however his allergy was really bad when the cat was living in the house. it took about 3 days for his allergy to kick in, but once it started it just got worst and worst :(

It’s not worth the risk. Is he just allergic to cat fur? Could you look at other pets?

@BalladOfBarryAndFreda

It’s not worth the risk. Is he just allergic to cat fur? Could you look at other pets?

i have a dog (shichon) and a rabbit and 9 chickens. we are an animal loving family. cats are one of my favourites. but ill just have to befriend the neighbours cats.

sounds like the best plan tbh

.... OR, you have 2 acres, you like cats, maybe you could give an unfriendly barn cat a home?
You'd just feed it and have the joy of seeing a cat from afar, and knowing it has a warm shelter and some support.

@TheSpottedZebra

.... OR, you have 2 acres, you like cats, maybe you could give an unfriendly barn cat a home? You'd just feed it and have the joy of seeing a cat from afar, and knowing it has a warm shelter and some support.

I second this. With time he/she might warm to OP or just have a happy and free life whilst still being cared for.