Trying the water bowl away from the food is worth it because International Cat Care treats water as reachable, calm, and preferably separate from food and litter, and finds more than one water spot useful. That alone does not explain how much a cat drinks. A station is built with bowl width, a fountain or not, place, and cleaning.
Bowl width and material
A wide bowl can help the cat approach the water without being pressed against the rim. Material is chosen for cleaning and so the bowl does not tip.
Does every cat need a fountain?
No. If the cat uses a still bowl, a fountain is not forced in place of that spot.
Why the bowl's place matters
The middle of a walkway or a noisy corner undercuts the effect of filling the bowl.
How often should the water be refreshed?
Refreshing the water does not replace washing the bowl's surface.
How do you track intake?
If there are several bowls or a fountain, watch how much empties in total, not the level in one bowl.
Why a sudden change in drinking matters
A sudden rise or drop should not be explained by a placement trial; it needs a veterinary assessment.
