If he gave up on the litterboxes and tried to pee on the drop cloth, chances are he has a urinary tract infection. That's what happens when Puddy gets one. Although last time she plopped herself down the way Pouncer did and it turned out that she had dried feces blocked in her colon and Dr. Lee had to clean her out. Don't put off taking her to the vet; it's very painful if that's what's wrong w/Pouncer. You might consider the emergency vet and not wait. I hope I'm wrong.

Blessings,
Mary