Freddie I've had cats for years and dang they chase anything that moves, but I'm a fan of disiplining the little lovely beasties if needed. My cat knows to settle down real quick if she on my lap when I've got a kilt on. They're (usually) very smart animals if not moody, and they learn fast. The flick in the ear seems to work well. After a few times just the sound of it in their general direction should settle them down.
There's always the old trick of pepper or chilli powder on anywhere you don't want a cat to be. Just remember to wash your hands after tying the laces.