How do mama leopards protect their cubs?

most cheetahs growl at the predator
She will growl viciously, and lash out at the attacker, buying time for her cubs to escape and hide.

Once she's absolutely sure her cubs are safe in hiding, she will abandon the attacker and go back for them.

Sometimes, the best way to defend her cubs, is to walk away from danger.

If a mother has caught prey and then some hyenas come along, the cheetah family usually just walk away.