That seems really odd that your kitty won't take the water still! mine sneezed in it a bit when they first had it but they love to drink it, usually out of the dog bowl. Have you tried making the water warm like body temperature (if in doubt dip ur elbow in it like a baby bath) I know cats don't like cold things... I guess your milk isn't always heated up but it is thicker and probably more tempting to smell * also are you leaving it down or just giving him water at mealtimes? cos I would just leave it somewhere he knows where it is and he'll prob sneak in and have some when you're not looking xxx
In fact that's probably the thing... if it's cold out of the tap it won't necessarily be to a cat's taste. at least let it reach room temperature before offering it i reckon xx