How Calingo Tames the Lions and Conquers the Swiss Pet Market
In the current season of the 3+ show Die Höhle der Löwen Schweiz, six lions invested in the up-and-coming Swiss pet insurance startup Calingo. And rightly so: Switzerland truly loves its pets. According to a recent study, two-thirds of pet parents say that their dog or cat is their favorite family member. This is also reflected in their spending: every year, Swiss people spend millions on food, toys, vets, and even physiotherapy for their pets.
And yet, pet health insurance in Switzerland is still in its infancy: fewer than 10% of all pets are insured – whereas in countries like Sweden or the UK the rate is as high as 90%. A huge market potential that is waiting to be unlocked.
This is where Calingo comes in: the Swiss pet insurance startup that offers cat and dog insurance entirely digital and online. Calingo covers healthcare costs arising from a vet visit, just as we know it from our own health insurance. The startup provides protection for all ages and breeds and is the only provider to offer coverage for pre-existing conditions. With a monthly cancellation option, human-medicine-inspired coverage, and additional health services such as free 24/7 online veterinary consultations, Calingo is far more than just pet insurance: it is a holistic offering for pet health.
That also convinced the investors on Die Höhle der Löwen Schweiz. In the current season, the Calingo team secured a deal with e-commerce pioneer Roland Brack. In addition to Roland Brack, Calingo was able to win over five more ‘lions’ as investors: Bettina Hein, Felix Bertram, Jürg Schwarzenbach, Lukas Speiser, and Tom Zimmermann. Because at Calingo, even the fiercest lions turn into cuddly cats.
“Calingo is an ambitious young startup that is shaking up – or rather redefining – pet insurance in Switzerland! With their fully online and digital offering, they are far ahead of traditional insurers. They put the wellbeing of pets first, not the wallets of their owners.”
Calingo is already the fastest-growing provider of pet insurance in Switzerland. With around 2.5 million dogs and cats living in Swiss households, the market potential is enormous. But Calingo’s ambitions go far beyond simply selling insurance. The startup aims to evolve into a holistic health platform for pets. From flexible coverage to digital health services such as online veterinary consultations, all the way to personalized care and nutrition recommendations, Calingo is creating an offering that makes life easier for pet owners and supports what we all wish for: a long, healthy life for every furry friend.
