Feline herpesvirus 1 (FHV-1) is a prevalent and highly contagious pathogen in domestic and wild felids, primarily affecting the ocular and respiratory systems. Belonging to the Herpesviridae family, FHV-1 establishes lifelong latency, leading to recurrent episodes of clinical symptoms and significant morbidity. This review examines the comprehensive aspects of FHV-1, including its genome organization, phylogeny, clinical manifestations, pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment, control, and emerging immunotherapeutic strategies. The virus’s large double-stranded DNA genome facilitates genetic manipulation, enabling the development of recombinant vaccines. Phylogenetic studies place FHV-1 among alphaherpesviruses, highlighting evolutionary adaptations contributing to their rapid replication, persistence, high transmission rate, and pathogenicity in felid hosts. Common ocular symptoms include conjunctivitis, keratitis, corneal ulceration, and keratoconjunctivitis sicca, which can lead to severe pain and progressive corneal pathology, potentially resulting in blindness. Respiratory symptoms involve progression of upper respiratory tract diseases characterized by sneezing, coughing, nasal discharge, and ocular secretions, with occasional ulcerative lesions and severe conditions like eosinophilic keratitis, anterior uveitis, corneal sequestrum, and ulcerative dermatitis. Pathogenesis involves complex viral-host interactions causing acute infections and latency complicating treatment efforts. Diagnosis has advanced with virus isolation, PCR, and molecular techniques, enhancing FHV-1 detection and differentiation. Treatment remains limited to antiviral drugs and supportive care. Novel immunotherapeutic approaches, such as RNA interference and CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, offer promising therapeutic avenues. The potential FHV-1 has as a vaccine vector is notable due to its ability to integrate multiple antigens, sustain immune responses through latency, and host-specificity, minimizing cross-species infection risks. Continued research into FHV-1’s genomic structure, pathogenesis, and innovative therapeutic strategies is essential for mitigating its impact on feline health and revolutionizing feline disease management and prevention.