My gf's cat also HATES the carrier (fighting, scratching, peeing) and will take your arm off if you try to nape her. One day, we tried putting on one of the Travel Cat harnesses and... she was absolutely fine with it. Now she gets to sit in mom's arms, and the leash prevents running away.

Hmm. I'm not sure how that will work when Mirri's still so touch averse, but maybe in a year or two when she's more comfortable with me. Happy for your kitty tho!