How does gecko protect itself from enemies?

A gecko can amputate its tail. When a predetor, such as a cat, chases after the gecko and catches it by its tail, the tail just comes off. The tail wiggles around for a while and the cat while become distracted and confused, this stops the cat from chasing the gecko. This way, the gecko can live his happy little life as a lizard and eat food, and chirp and be happy.