Why is it safe?
Sodium bicarbonate is non-toxic at amounts cats would realistically encounter in household use. As an odor neutralizer placed in open containers or sprinkled on surfaces (carpets, litter area surroundings), it presents no chemical hazard. It is not an irritant at ambient concentrations and does not release volatile compounds into the air.
Symptoms
None from normal household exposure. Direct ingestion of large amounts: electrolyte imbalance, vomiting, not a realistic risk from typical odor-neutralizer use.
What To Do
No action needed for normal household use.
Notes
Baking soda is the safest practical alternative to plug-in air fresheners and scented candles for households with cats. Place open boxes in problem areas, sprinkle on carpets before vacuuming, or use in litter area surrounds. Does not release VOCs, terpenes, or any aerosolized compound. Commercial activated charcoal odor absorbers carry the same LOW risk profile and are equally effective. Neither replaces ventilation, which remains the most effective and safest air quality management strategy.
Sources
→ ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (non-toxic list) — aspca.org
→ National Animal Poison Control database