About
Noah's Ark Pet Center sits on Madison's east side, a family-run pet store that doubles as one of the city's most unmistakable neighborhood institutions. The first thing visitors notice is the cats: rescue kittens roam freely between the shelves and displays, lounging on counters and greeting shoppers like furry ambassadors. The store pulls these cats from high-volume kill shelters in the South and offers them for adoption, and that compassionate mission is the heart of the place.
" For aquarium keepers, Noah's Ark stocks freshwater fish alongside its broad mix of pet supplies, so it's a handy spot if you're hunting for freshwater fish for sale in Madison, WI without a big-box trip. The fish tanks share floor space with small-animal setups housing hamsters, rats, and guinea pigs, and longtime customers come for treats, toys, and dog and cat food (including an impressive variety of wet kitten food) at prices regulars call genuinely reasonable. If something isn't on the shelf, the staff will special order it.
The people behind the counter earn steady praise: friendly, knowledgeable, and refreshingly free of upselling, with several shoppers noting they'll take pet food back if your animal doesn't like it. Groomer Kelly has built her own loyal following among dog owners who trust her gentle touch with anxious and older dogs. It's a quirky, cluttered, undeniably lived-in shop, and not everyone clicks with the free-roaming-cat energy or the occasional musty odor, and some adopters recommend budgeting for a vet visit soon after bringing a kitten home.
But for many east-side Madison families searching for a local pet and fish store near me, the warmth of the staff and the genuine rescue mission keep them coming back. If you want freshwater fish, small pets, or supplies available in Madison, WI from a true ma-and-pa shop, Noah's Ark is a longtime fixture worth a visit.
What they offer
Fish & livestock for sale at Noah's Ark Pet Center in Madison, WI
Noah's Ark Pet Center stocks freshwater fish for sale in Madison, WI.
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Free-roaming rescue cats and kittens available for adoption throughout the store
- Cats rescued from high-volume kill shelters in the South
- Stocks freshwater fish and aquariums alongside small pets like hamsters, rats, and guinea pigs
- Dog groomer Kelly with a devoted local following
- Friendly, no-pressure staff with reasonable prices and special ordering available
From keepers
Customer reviews
“I'm enjoying pet center and like the cats and best best selections cat food.”
— Jordan Lopez5.02 weeks ago“Cats at literally every turn, the place stunk and looked filthy. I can appreciate their mission but execution feels like a cat hoarder who happens to have a pet store. Needs a deep deep clean and better containment of cats.”
— Amanda1.02 weeks ago“Lots of their cats get sick and they don't seek adequate medical care for them prior to adopting out to people. Adopters beware, you may end up with a hefty vet bill. My vet said this is a common trend with cats from Noah's Ark.”
— T S1.03 weeks ago“Decent pet store but the small animal care is insane. Tiny cages with barred wheels and extremely dirty environments. The rats and Guinea pigs are in the same cages as hamsters despite their different needs. There’s also a ton of baby animals so I question where they get them all from? Pet mills? I’m not sure. Please improve the setups and I would love to go here.”
— Aa C1.04 weeks ago“Great place to get your pet food. They have cats running around and other animals its really nice people are so friendly they will even take your pet food back if your pet doesn't like it. I love this place its comfortable and nice.”
— K La5.02 months ago“You can tell the people here love pets. Just had my dog groomed here, got his hair and nails cut, and they gave him a bath. I appreciate the care they take and they have some very nice kitties wondering around. This place feels like what a good pet store should be.”
— Levi Aleman5.02 months ago“Staff here are always so kind and willing to answer all of my questions.”
— Rachael Lover5.03 months ago“Whilst I do like the free roaming nature of the cats in this store, the store itself smells horrible- almost like a strong cat pee odor. I was interested in adopting one cat, and was told that she had a clean bill of health. When I took a closer look at the cat, I noticed that the kitten had a very bad eye infection.....When I asked the older gentleman at the counter about this, he shrugged it off saying that "Oh yes, we need to get the vet in to check on it". Let it speak for itself. So much about being honest and truthful. On one hand, I would not want to give this place any of my money because I do not believe they have the best interests in mind for the cats. On another hand, I feel deeply sorry for the animals and would love to give a cat a better opportunity.”
— Kaylan-Marie Achong2.03 months ago“The conditions the small pets are in here are inhumane. Do not support this place.”
— M1.04 months ago“Very easy and helpful place and people if you need any pet stuff. Got my girl rat here and very reasonable prices! Thanks guys”
— jasmine5.04 months ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (608) 249-8646 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Noah's Ark Pet Center.