Usually not a good idea to do any cutting on your own... I'm not sure about the nerves, but it can definately do more harm than good unless you really know what you're doing. Water changes are one of the best treatments for stuff like that IMO, although you may get some suggestions for something more effective. Some people seem to have luck with mela/pimafix, but I think it is mostly snake oil!!! In the future, I would definately skip the auto feeders, most fish will be fine for 9 days, and in such a small tank, its just asking for trouble to use them. If you feel really bad, have someone come and feed them once, but otherwise I would just leave them be